26-Mar-20
This podcast features Joey Diaz, a Cuban-American stand-up comedian and actor. They discuss a range of topics, including the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, the comedy scene, personal experiences, and societal observations.
Major Topics
- The Coronavirus Pandemic and Its Impact:
- Diaz’s initial panic and decision to self-quarantine.
- The uncertainty and fear surrounding the virus, especially the asymptomatic nature of the disease.
- Observations on the public’s response to the pandemic, ranging from paranoia to denial.
- The economic and societal implications of the pandemic and the need for a collective response.
- Comedy and the Entertainment Industry:
- Diaz’s experiences performing during the early stages of the pandemic and the challenges of performing without an audience.
- The impact of the pandemic on the comedy scene and the uncertainty surrounding future performances.
- Reflections on the financial toll of the pandemic on the entertainment industry and the vulnerability of artists.
- Thoughts on the future of comedy and the potential for adaptation and innovation.
- Personal Reflections on Health and Wellness:
- Diaz’s history with asthma and his approach to managing his health.
- The importance of maintaining a strong immune system through diet, exercise, and supplements.
- Diaz’s personal wellness routine, including boxing, sauna use, and meditation.
- An emphasis on self-care and the importance of taking responsibility for one’s health.
- Societal Observations and Cultural Commentary:
- Diaz’s critical view of the American culture of excess and entitlement.
- The importance of humility and the need for a re-evaluation of values and priorities.
- The potential for the pandemic to act as a wake-up call for societal change and personal growth.
- Observations on the fragility of society and the need for unity and compassion during challenging times.
- Politics and Social Commentary:
- Diaz’s skepticism towards official narratives and a critical view of the Chinese government’s handling of the pandemic.
- Concerns about the political and economic implications of the pandemic, particularly the potential for China’s rise in global power.
- Observations on the leadership of politicians like Governor Cuomo and President Trump.
- Diaz’s support for policies that prioritize public health over economic interests.
- The Role of the Media and Information:
- Diaz’s skepticism towards the mainstream media and their portrayal of events.
- The importance of critical thinking and discerning reliable information sources.
- The potential for misinformation and manipulation during times of crisis.
- The need for individuals to be proactive in seeking out accurate and balanced information.
- Drug Use and Addiction:
- Diaz’s personal experiences with addiction to cocaine, Xanax, and marijuana.
- Diaz’s insights into the nature of addiction and the challenges of recovery.
- A candid discussion of the allure and dangers of various drugs.
- Diaz’s current approach to managing his relationship with marijuana and the importance of self-awareness and moderation.
- The Comedy Community and Stand-Up Culture:
- Diaz’s reflections on the camaraderie and support within the comedy community.
- Stories and anecdotes about fellow comedians like Stan Hope, Arty Linx, and Alonzo Bodden.
- Observations on the evolution of stand-up comedy and the challenges of navigating the industry.
- Diaz’s passion for stand-up and his commitment to the art form.
- Life Lessons and Personal Growth:
- Diaz’s emphasis on the importance of self-reflection and personal growth.
- The role of adversity in shaping character and resilience.
- Diaz’s belief in the power of gratitude and mindfulness.
- A message of hope and optimism despite the challenges of the current world.
- The Future of Sports and Entertainment:
- Diaz’s thoughts on the impact of the pandemic on sports, particularly MMA.
- The uncertainty surrounding future sporting events and the potential for adaptation.
- The potential for virtual events and the evolution of how sports are consumed.
- Diaz’s passion for MMA and his anticipation for the return of live events.
Memorable Quotes
- “Something’s going on. I’m not a fucking scientist. Have you ever been here in an earthquake? Yes. It’s for me, it’s the same feeling. But but more magnified.”
- “We got a lot of control, Joe. We can’t move an apartment no more. 1500 for a studio. We just got greedy, man. The greed’s been too much.”
- “We were getting fucking greedy. But there’s definitely that, and we were getting a little old results. But we’re soft. We’re soft. that’s the big one.”
- “This is a wake up call for the whole country. The whole world is a wake up call. We’re vulnerable, and it’s also a wake up call. I can’t say this to enough people. Take care of your health. Please.”
- “It’s a wake up call that you have a finite amount of time in this life. In this life, the way you’re experiencing it right now, it’s this is just how it is right now. There’s a 1,000,000 different factors that are in play constantly.”